BA of Physics&Math wants to get into Mechanical or Electrical or Optical Eng Phd

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SUMMARY

A student majoring in Physics and Math at a liberal arts college, with GPAs of 3.81 in Physics and 3.73 in Math, is seeking advice on transitioning to a PhD program in Mechanical, Electrical, or Optical Engineering. They have research experience in additive manufacturing at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and are curious about the challenges of entering engineering graduate programs compared to traditional engineering undergraduates. Insights from peers indicate that transitioning from a Physics and Math background to engineering PhDs is feasible, with successful examples from their college.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of GRE requirements and scoring, specifically a minimum of 670 in quantitative and 800 in analytical sections.
  • Familiarity with research methodologies in engineering, particularly in additive manufacturing.
  • Knowledge of the academic rigor and expectations of PhD programs in engineering fields.
  • Awareness of the differences between undergraduate degrees in Physics/Math and Engineering disciplines.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the application processes for PhD programs in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering.
  • Explore the specific prerequisites for graduate studies in Optical Engineering.
  • Investigate networking opportunities with alumni who have successfully transitioned from Physics/Math to engineering PhDs.
  • Learn about the curriculum differences between a Physics/Math undergraduate degree and an Engineering PhD program.
USEFUL FOR

Undergraduate students in Physics or Math considering graduate studies in engineering, academic advisors, and individuals interested in interdisciplinary transitions into engineering fields.

zagwi
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Hi,
I'm attending a 50+ Liberal Art college in physics and math, double major, I'm going to be a senior this fall and want to go to graduate school. I have major GPAs 3.81, 3,73 for physics and math respectively and 3.57 overall, GRE 670+800. I also conducted research at ORNL at material processing group on additive manufacturing, this is the only research I formally did.
Does anyone here know of anything about physics&math major going into graduate school in Engineering field I mentioned in the title? Is it generally harder than BS, or engineering Bachelors? What is your suggestions if I just want to go to Engineering phd?

Appreciate any comments :)
 
Physics news on Phys.org
anyone?
 
Quite a few people at my small liberal arts college have finished double majors in physics and math and gone on to do mechanical or chemical engineering phDs (one such major is currently doing a MechE phD at Johns Hopkins), so I know it is possible.

As for the rigor, benefits and costs of taking such a route, I wish more people who have actually done this would provide further insight. I am still an undergraduate, and am planning to pursue graduate studies in engineering with a physics major/math minor as well.
 

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